Around 200 people protested. Demonstrations started on West 130th outside Cleveland Police's First District HQ. A march followed down Lorain before a prayer concluded the protest near West Blvd. Photos by Jacob Chabowski / Lakewood Observer

The bishops of Ohio have decided to temporarily suspend all publicly celebrated Masses/Liturgies, at least through the celebrations of Holy Week and Easter. The bishops of Ohio dispense the Catholic faithful who reside in their respective dioceses and all other Catholics currently in Ohio from the obligation of attending Sunday Mass through Easter Sunday. The scheduled public celebration of the Sacrament of Penance is also suspended through Easter.

Governor DeWine on Sunday ordered bars and restaurants in Ohio to close by 9pm due to the coronavirus outbreak. The decision came after thousands packed bars across the state Saturday night. DeWine hopes to limit large crowds and encourage social distancing. Take out options are still permitted, though it seems like many places are opting to close altogether. DeWine also announced plans to offer assistance to those who lose their jobs as a result of this decision.

Photos taken of Around The Corner (already locked by 9pm), Riverwood Cafe (which ask everybody to leave right at 9pm), and West End Tavern (which closed all tabs right at 9pm)

The photos below were taken around 1 hour after testing started. The testing was done inside of a parking garage. Cleveland Clinic police officers and traffic guards were all wearing masks.

The line stretched out of the parking garage, onto East 105th Street, then snaked through a nearby parking lot, back onto East 105th Street, then onto Carnegie. It was stretching back to Stokes Blvd when I left.

From a joint Cleveland Clinic / UH press release:

Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals (UH) have partnered to provide drive-through COVID-19 testing for patients with a doctor’s order from UH or Cleveland Clinic. The testing will begin at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 14 for Cleveland Clinic patients and on Monday for UH patients. The testing site will be open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week.

The on-site testing will be located in the garage of the jointly-owned W. O. Walker Building in University Circle, 10524 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland.

Upon arrival to the drive-through location, patients will stay in their car and present their doctor’s order. They will remain in their car as a sample is collected.

This collaboration propels the capability for rapid testing results to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in Northeast Ohio.

(by Jacob Chabowski) March 12th, 2020 is the day many in the world came to grips with the reality that their daily routines would change for the next several weeks because of COVID-19.

It is a day that saw the DOW plummet 10%, schools close, sporting events cancelled, and world leaders grimly announce shutdowns and quarantines. The world collectively became exhausted, fearful, and confused.

"We will get through this - Ohioans are resilient," Governor DeWine said. "The sun will come up in the morning, but it's going to get darker before the sun comes up. The goal is to minimize deaths."

In Lakewood, shortly after the Governor's latest press conference announcing groups of 100 or more would be deemed an unlawful gathering (with few exceptions), residents and visitors flocked to local grocery stores. Toilet paper, bottled water, and disinfectants were in hot demand. All stores had short supply of these items. Other items, like bread and beef, were also in short supply at certain stores.

Lines weaved up and down various aisles. Shoppers told me it took nearly 30 minutes to checkout. At Aldi's, people started to park at a nearby bank. Shoppers at Giant Eagle were forced to park near the Winking Lizard.

Despite the lines shoppers seemed in good spirits. One woman told me with a laugh "None of us know what the future will bring, but we do know we are in this together like it or not."

Local journalism will be more important than ever now. What is your community doing to prepare for this? What events are cancelled? What are your neighbors saying?

The Lakewood Observer will continue to post announcements as they come in from City and Community leaders.

St Ed's defeated Lorain 76-55 at Rhodes Arena in Akon. The game was played with limited fans due to the Coronavirus outbreak. Each player had the ability to purchase up to 4 tickets. No other people aside from credentialed media were allowed access. Ed's will play in the Regional Final in Toledo. Photos by Jacob Chabowski / The Lakewood Observer

Lakewood impressed many people with a deep run into the postseason. Great job to the players, coaches and parents. Can't wait until next season. It was a pleasure covering you guys! Photos by Jacob Chabowski / The Lakewood Observer

The Ranger's defeated Elyria 49-44 at Elyria Catholic High School. With the win the Rangers punched their ticket to the District Championship vs Lorain. Photos by Jacob Chabowski / The Lakewood Observer

The very popular annual Sounds of the Season took place at the Civic Auditorium the weekend of the 13th-14th. Students performed holiday songs and told holiday stories. The Chamber Choir, Chamber Orchestra, Symphonic Mixed Choir, Symphony Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, Four Seasons String Quartet, and Barnstormers were among the groups that performed. Photos by Jacob Chabowski / The Lakewood Observer

The Rangers travelled to Avon High School where they battled the Eagles. The game was physical and close for the first three quarters before Lakewood pulled away in the 4th quarter. A strong crowd was on hand to watch Avon's first home game of the season. Photos by Jacob Chabowski / Lakewood Observer

The holiday season has arrived in Lakewood. Thousands turned out for this annual tradition featuring a parade, food trucks, beer garden, live music, tree lighting, and fireworks. Photos by Jacob Chabowski / The Lakewood Observer

Lakewood and Hathaway Brown faced off at Brush High School in Lyndhurst Thursday evening. Fans, players, and coaches braved the brisk winds as the two teams played a physical game. Hathaway Brown scored early and never looked back as they topped the Rangers 3-0. With the loss Lakewood wraps up a very successful season, while Hathaway Brown advances to the next round of the OHSAA Sectionals. Photos by Jacob Chabowski / The Lakewood Observer

LAKEWOOD, OH -- You could not ask for a more competitive and intense game to start the season. Both teams battled through adversity and made big plays when needed but it was Amherst coming out with the win. A strong, loud crowd was on hand at First Federal Lakewood Stadium to enjoy the first weekend of high school football in northeast Ohio. Photos by Jacob Chabowski / The Lakewood Observer

With all of the rain we've had this weekend, I thought now would be a great time to look back at this incredible sunset from Sunday, June 2nd. Don't let the weather get you down...the sun will shine again! Photos by Jacob Chabowski / The Lakewood Observer

While covering the sunset at Lakewood Park I saw a young couple get engaged. Congrats to Ryan & Jill! This might end up being my shot of the summer. Can't beat a moment like this. Photos by Jacob Chabowski / The Lakewood Observer

An annual tradition where Police, Fire, and Service crews from Lakewood show off their trucks and interact with the residents and visitors they serve. Smiles all around. Photos by Jacob Chabowski / All Photos property of The Lakewood Observer

St Ed's and Green battled at Wolstein Arena on the campus of Cleveland State University Saturday afternoon. With the win St Ed's advance to Columbus as part of the Final Four. Congrats to Green and their fans on an impressive season. Photos by Jacob Chabowski / Property of The Lakewood Observer

A thriller from the Wolstein Center in downtown Cleveland. It took overtime thanks to a buzzer-beater, game-tying 3-point basket by Euclid, but St. Eds survives to advance to the Regional Final. St Ed's will play Green Saturday afternoon. Photos by Jacob Chabowski / Property of The Lakewood Observer

St Ignatius captured its fourth consecutive title in a row Sunday afternoon at Nationwide Arena in Columbus. The Wildcats defeated Dublin Jerome by a final score of 7-2. Dublin Jerome was the first high school from central Ohio to appear in the state hockey championship. Photos by Jacob Chabowski / All photos property of The Lakewood Observer

Two ranked teams squared off on the campus of St Edward's for a Monday night matchup. A strong third quarter propelled St Ed's to victory. All photos by Jacob Chabowski / Photos property of The Lakewood Observer

An annual Christmas tradition in Lakewood, Light Up Lakewood takes place downtown. Live music, a parade, food, the Christmas tree lighting, and fireworks make it a fun time for all. Photos by Jacob Chabowski / All photos property of The Lakewood Observer

In what started off as a grinding, defensive battle St Eds defeated the Colerain (Cincinnati) Cardinals 24-10 at the Tom Benson Pro Football Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton. Photos by Jacob Chabowski / All photos property of The Lakewood Observer

Lakewood Rangers travel to Ries Ice Rink in Parma to take on Normandy High School. Normandy came out on top thanks to a strong offensive performance. Photos by Jacob Chabowski / All photos property of The Lakewood Observer

Lakewood received its first snowfall of the 2018 Winter season Monday night. Rain turned into sleet in the evening hours. By nightfall it had completely changed to snow. The snow was heavy and wet and quickly clung to trees, signs, and leaf piles. After a couple hours it had accumulated on lawns and streets. Around 9pm traffic was light and drivers seemed to be taking it slow. Several plows were out clearing the roads. Photos by Jacob Chabowski / All photos property of The Lakewood Observer

The St Edward's Eagles defeated the Mentor Cardinals by a final score of 24-14 to capture the regional championship. Great effort by both teams and a great turnout by the fans. The game was played at Euclid High School in their new stadium. Photos by Jacob Chabowski / All photos property of The Lakewood Observer

The St Ignatius Wildcats defeated the St Edward's Eagle 21-7 Friday night. The annual rivalry, nicknamed the "holy war,", was held at FirstEnergy Stadium home of the Cleveland Browns. Despite the rain and chilly temps thousands of fans showed up to take in the game. All photos by Jacob Chabowski / Photos property of The Lakewood Observer

For the first time since Dec 13,2015 the Cleveland Browns won a football game. At Merry Arts on Detroit Road the scene was electric as fans packed the pub. Bud Light also ran a promotion in which free beer would be available at a couple dozen locations in Northeast Ohio the next time the Browns won. Thursday night that beer was finally given away moments after the game. Merry Arts was one location where the free Bud Lights was available. Fan reaction was insane as folks celebrated a win and grabbed their free beer. Be sure to check out Brian Foox's photos as well. And special thanks to Merry Arts for keeping things fun and being accommodating to the press.

After losing their first two games of the season by just a combined four points, the St Edward Eagles took out their frustrations on the Cathedral Prep (PA) Ramblers 35-3 at First Federal Lakewood Stadium. The Eagles found a lot of success with their ground game. RB Jordan Castleberry ran for three touchdowns, QB Garrett Dzuro ran for one, and Caden Kolesar returned a punt for a touchdown. The defense was also strong for St Ed's, making a number of big stops to hold Cathedral Prep to just a field goal. The Eagles are off to Cincinnati next week where they will take on the Elder Panthers. Recap and photos by Jacob Chabowski. All photos are property of The Lakewood Observer

In perhaps the most emotional 30 minutes of football one could hope to see, St Ed’s experienced the feelings of victory, defeat, victory, then defeat once again as they dropped a back-and-forth game against Cass Tech (MI).

The Eagles appeared to be in control most of the game. Eagles QB Garret Dzuro connected on a touchdown pass to Quintel Kent early to put the Eagles up 7-0, and Jordan Casteberry scored a touchdown on a 33-yard run in the second quarter to increase the lead to 14-0. The Eagles defense was strong throughout the game.

Cass Tech finally found the end zone thanks to a short run by RB Lewis Nichols to cut the deficit to 14-7 for Cass Tech with 4:27 left in the fourth quarter.

After a defensive stop Cass Tech took over again. The Eagles defense gave up 30 yards in penalties on that drive, which paved the way for a 31yd TD pass from QB Jalen Graham to WR Kyron McKinnie-Harp to cut it to 14-13 Eagles with 3:06 left in the game. A gutsy call for a two point conversion gave Cass Tech a 15-14 lead.

On the kickoff, Quintel Kent ran the ball back to the end zone for a 80+ yard kickoff return for the Eagles touchdown. The Eagles were back on top 20-15 after a failed PAT with 1:07 to go in the game.

After a few defensive stops for the Eagles, Cass Tech was down to their last play. With no time left Cass Tech QB Jalen Graham launched the ball into the endzone on a hail mary pass to WR Noah Stamps to give Cass Tech the 21-20 victory.

All photos property of The Lakewood Observer. Recap and photos by Jacob Chabowski

The Rangers opened up the season at home against Garfield Heights with a 42-0 loss Friday night. In addition to being the first game of the season it was also the first game as head coach for Lakewood's Tom Thome. Despite the loss fans and students enjoyed a lovely evening together at First Federal Lakewood Stadium. Photos by Jacob Chabowski / All photos property of The Lakewood Observer

Amherst blanked Lakewood 6-0 Wednesday evening in the SWC opener for both teams. Strong offense and a solid time of possession paved the way for a Comets victory. Despite the loss the atmosphere was pleasant in Lakewood for the Rangers' home opener as parents, students, staff, and faculty enjoyed the evening together after a restful summer break.

The Pride jumped out to an early 2-0 lead thanks to a Chelsea Goodacre homerun. Bianka Bell hit a double to right center field to score Megan Wiggins and extend the lead 3-0 in the 3rd inning. Kelly Kretschman punched one up the middle and drove in Sierra Romero and Lauren Chamberlain, and pushed the lead to 5-0 in the 5th.

The Comets showed signs of a rally in the 6th inning. Jade Rhodes hit a 2-run double and Liu Fei Fei would later follow with an RBI single, but that would be all the Comets could muster as they fell to the Pride 6-3.

Jolene Henderson gets the victory on the mound for the Pride, while Devin Brown takes the loss for the Comets.

After the game both teams invited fans onto the field and signed autographs.Photos by Jacob Chabowksi / All Photos are property of The Lakewood Observer

The Summer Meltdown represents one of the region’s most highly-anticipated street parties. A summertime celebration of our city’s vibrancy, this free community event draws more than 10,000 attendees from across Northeast Ohio to the heart of Lakewood each July.

Photos by Jacob Chabowski / All photos are property of The Lakewood Observer.

Thousands turned out for Lakewood's annual 4th of July celebration at Lakewood Park. Despite temps soaring into the 90s people had fun grilling, playing ball, and laying out on the grass. Project Lakewood performed and fireworks concluded the day's celebration. Photos by Jacob Chabowksi. All photos are property of The Lakewood Observer

The annual Taste of Lakewood was held this past Sunday. The events now attracts thousands of people from all over the region who know of Lakewood’s reputation as a great food destination. Lakewood’s best restaurants, eateries and caterers sell their food to guests who picnic on the park grounds, dine al fresco, and enjoy great live music onstage at Madison Park in the historic Birdtown Neighborhood of Lakewood. Photos by Jacob Chabowski. All photos are property of The Lakewood Observer

Thousands of fans and media flocked to Cleveland, Ohio for Game 3 of the 2018 NBA Finals. A watch party took place outside The Q at Gateway Plaza. Games, food trucks, and music made for a fun atmosphere before tipoff. The game was played on large screens for those gathered outside The Q. The Cavs lost to the Warriors 110-102 to fall into a 0-3 hole in the series. Photos by Jacob Chabowksi. All photos property of The Lakewood Observer

Hundreds of visitors and residents turned out for the annual Meet the Trucks event held at Lakewood Park on June 2nd. Attendees had the opportunity to hop in the driver's seat of fire engines, ambulances, snow plows, and other trucks. Food and other events were also offered at the park. The event was sponsored by the City of Lakewood and the Lakewood Early Childhood PTA. All photos by Jacob Chabowski. Photos are property of The Lakewood Observer.

Neighboring Rocky River was treated to a stunning sunset Thursday evening. WIth Memorial Day weekend quickly approaching folks wasted heading out on the lake, to Rocky River Park, and to Mitchell's Ice Cream. Welcome to Summer in CLE. Photos by Jacob Chabowksi. All photos propoerty of The Lakewood Observer.

The mercury hit 74 degrees in Lakewood Thursday evening. Visitors and residents of the city flocked to Lakewood's parks as well as downtown to enjoy the weather. Photos by Jacob Chabowski. All photos property of The Lakewood Observer

The Lakewood Rangers hosted the Midview High School Middies Thursday afternoon at Harding Field. Temps pushed into the mid-70s as the stands were filled with parents and spectators. Photos by Jacob Chabowski. All photos property of The Lakewood Observer.

St Ed's and Valley Forge played in chilly conditions at Sprenger Stadium in Avon. After falling behind early, the Eagle's took the lead and never looked back. Derek Tackett had 10 K's in in 5 innings for the Eagles. Photos by Jacob Chabowski. All photos are property of The Lakewood Observer.

Lakewood and North Olmsted played in a hard fought game Monday at Harding Field. The Rangers rallied in the 6th inning and won by a final score of 5-4. Rangers shortstop Maizy Cunningham hit her first career home run and Payton Rossen pitched a complete game. Photos by Jacob Chabowski. All photos are property of The Lakewood Observer.

The Lakewood Observer was recently given a tour of the Lakewood Fire Department headquarters by Assistant Chief Darren Collins. Click HERE for the full article. Photos by Jacob Chabowski. All photos are property of The Lakewood Observer

The atmosphere could not have been more fun Friday night at Lakewood High School. The Rangers -- in their final regular season game -- celebrated their seniors, dominated North Ridgeville, and clinched the SWC Championship. Photos by Jacob Chabowski. All photos are the property of The Lakewood Observer.

With wind chills struggling to get above 0 degrees and part of Lake Erie freezing over, Lakewood Park resembled a frozen tundra Wednesday afternoon. All photos by Jacob Chabowski. Photos property of The Lakewood Observer

Lakewood Snowfall 12/13-12/14(15 Photos)
Lakewood, Ohio, saw its first significant snowfall of the season this week. Snow started to fall around Wednesday at 7pm and did not let up until Thursday morning.

By Thursday afternoon, crews had cleared most of the snow from the streets. While folks down in the MetroParks could be seen having fun and driving through the winter landscape, on Lakewood's city streets resident were digging cars out and plowing driveways.

Photos by Jacob Chabowski. All photos property of The Lakewood Observer.

Temps were mild and the skies clear as thousands of people gathered in downtown Lakewood for this annual holiday event. A vendor fair, food trucks, a parade, and the Christmas tree lighting ceremony were just some of the highlights. Of course, fireworks concluded the event and sent attendees home in the holiday spirit. All photos by Jacob Chabowski. Copyright The Lakewood Observer.

A little ACHA club hockey action at Kent State Ice Arena Saturday night as the Golden Flashers squared off against Indiana Tech University. Indiana dominated play for much of the first two periods. However, KSU came out strong in the third period scoring three times in the first five minutes to tie the game. Indiana Tech would counter with an additional three goals of their own though, and defeated KSU by a final of 6-3.

It's likely the warmer days are behind us for the year 2017. Here are some photos taken around Edgewater during the warm days in the last couple of weeks.

DACA Rally in Cleveland(21 Photos)
Activists gather at Market Square on a wet Thursday evening to protest President Trump's decision to end DACA, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. #OHereToStay was sponsored by DreamActivist Ohio, Cleveland Jobs With Justice, Indivisible CLE, Ohio's Voice, InterReligious Task Force, Eleonor Ramirez, and Don Bryant. There was a modest turnout of about 150 people. Several immigrants spoke, most notably a DACA student from Case Western Reserve University. The protest was peaceful, with two CPD cruisers watching from a hidden alley across the street.

Lakewood Fire(11 Photos)
Around 6:30pm, the Lakewood Fire Department received a call for a report of a fire at an apartment complex near the corner of Madison Ave and Lakeland Road. Madison Avenue was closed for about 20 minutes while fire crews cleared the smoke from the complex.